A grieving family is demanding accountability after a tragic incident in Chicago left a 62-year-old man with Alzheimer’s disease dead early Monday morning.
According to authorities, the shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. near 103rd Street and Luella Avenue in the South Deering neighborhood. Police say the homeowner, a 33-year-old man, reported that an unknown individual entered his residence and moved toward him, prompting him to fire a gun. The victim, later identified as Carmelo Medina of Harvey, was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Medina’s family says he had been living with Alzheimer’s disease and had gone missing earlier that night. They believe he became disoriented, walked a significant distance, and unknowingly entered the wrong home.
“He wasn’t in his right mind,” a family member shared, describing his condition and history of wandering episodes. Loved ones emphasized that Medina was a caring individual who often helped others and never posed a threat.
While Illinois law allows homeowners to use firearms in self-defense against perceived intruders, the family argues that the situation could have been handled differently. They believe the shooting may have been avoidable given Medina’s vulnerable condition.
Now, the family is not only coping with loss but also seeking clarity and justice. They are raising funds for funeral expenses and calling for a thorough investigation.
Authorities have confirmed the shooter had a valid firearm permit. As of now, the case remains under active investigation, with no further updates released.
